Contraception Counseling and Management

Many women choose to use contraceptive methods to provide control over the timing of pregnancies and avoid unintended pregnancies. There are a variety of methods available. Our providers are highly knowledgeable with the various forms of contraception and can provide the necessary information so you can make an informed decision as to which method is right for you.

Hormonal Birth Control

Hormonal birth control refers to birth control methods that contain synthetic forms of hormones. These contraceptives mimic the naturally-occurring hormones produced in a woman’s body. There are several types for couples to consider.

The Pill

Low Dose Options

Patch

Vaginal Rings

Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)

LARC options provide effective contraception for an extended period without requiring “user” action. They include injections, intrauterine devices (IUDs) and subdermal contraceptive implants. Many doctors consider these the most effective reversible methods of contraception because they do not depend on patient compliance. Types of Long Acting Reversible Contraception include:

Subdermal Contraceptive Implant

Intrauterine Devices (IUD)

Injection (Depo-Provera)

Barrier Methods

Barrier methods of birth control act as barriers to keep the man’s sperm from reaching the woman’s egg. Some barrier methods also have been successful in protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s).Barrier method types include:

Diaphragm

Condoms

Natural Family Planning

Natural Family Planning, or Fertility Awareness is a method of birth control that does not use medications or devices. It relies on observations about the woman’s body and menstrual cycle. OB/GYN of Indiana has physicians skilled in Natural Family Planning who can educate you should you choose this method.

Permanent Sterilization

Sterilization is a permanent method of contraception for both men and women. Tubal occlusion/ligation is a procedure that closes off the fallopian tubes preventing the eggs from moving down the fallopian tube to the uterus and keeps the sperm from reaching the egg.